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Wed, 13 May 2026

Wed, 13 May 2026 Glassmaker questions future of UK manufacturing

Bristol Blue Glass says rising energy costs and taxes have forced its closure.

* Bristol Blue Glass, a long-established glassmaker in Bristol, will close its manufacturing operations in May due to rising energy costs and taxes.
* Managing Director Suzanne Adlington blames National Insurance increases and fuel price rises for making it difficult for energy-intensive firms like hers to operate.
* The company has been in business for nearly 40 years and has produced glassware for numerous high-profile projects, including the Dr Who Tardis and Harry Potter films.
* Adlington questions whether manufacturing in the UK is still viable, citing the country's high taxes and fuel charges as major obstacles.
* Another glassmaking firm, Bath Aqua Glass, has also struggled to stay afloat due to rising costs and has had to cut its workforce by more than half.
* The government has announced measures to support businesses, including an energy profits levy and a £4bn access to finance boost for SMEs, but Adlington says these offer little reassurance.
* Local councillor Andrew Varney describes the closure of Bristol Blue Glass as "cruel" and warns that other small businesses may be struggling due to economic instability and rising costs.